St. Simons Island Light, Saint Simons Island

Name: St. Simons Island Light
Address: 610 Beachview Dr, Saint Simons Island, 31522, United States
Telephone: (912) 638-4666

#1 among attractions in Saint Simons Island

Museum, Top attraction, History museum

Gallery (11)

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Gallery

St. Simons Island Light, Saint Simons Island

Photo details 1. Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Michael Rivera / URL • 2. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ebyabe / URL • 3. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bubba73 / URL • 4. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Mjrmtg / URL • 5. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Ebyabe / URL • 6. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bubba73 / URL • 7. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bubba73 / URL

Facts and practical information

Standing as a beacon of maritime history on the southern coast of Georgia, the St. Simons Island Light is an iconic lighthouse that has been guiding sailors safely to shore since its establishment. This historical lighthouse, nestled in the heart of St. Simons Island, offers visitors a glimpse into the nautical past of the region and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Atlantic waters and coastal landscape.

Constructed in 1872 to replace an earlier structure destroyed during the Civil War, the St. Simons Island Light stands at an impressive 104 feet tall. Its classic, conical shape and distinctive black and white spiral markings make it an unmistakable landmark on the island. The lighthouse is still fully operational, emitting a flash every 60 seconds to warn and guide ships navigating the nearby waters.

For those with a penchant for history and a love for breathtaking vistas, the St. Simons Island Light provides an enriching experience. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the lighthouse and adjacent keeper's dwelling, which has been transformed into the A.W. Jones Heritage Center, housing a museum that offers insights into the rich maritime history of the area. The museum exhibits include artifacts from the original lighthouse, historical photographs, and interactive displays.

One of the highlights for many tourists is the opportunity to climb the 129 steps to the top of the lighthouse. Those who make the ascent are rewarded with a panoramic view that encompasses the sparkling waters of the Atlantic, the expansive marshes, and the picturesque landscape of St. Simons Island. The vantage point from the lantern room provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Georgia coast.

The St. Simons Island Light is more than just a historical site; it is an active part of the community, hosting events throughout the year, including festive holiday celebrations and educational programs. The surrounding area, with its well-maintained grounds, is also a favorite spot for picnicking, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the serene environment.

For the average tourist planning a visit to St. Simons Island, the lighthouse is a must-see destination. It is open to the public year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. There is an admission fee, which includes access to both the lighthouse and the museum. Visitors should check ahead for any changes in opening hours or special events.

Coordinates: 31°8'2"N, 81°23'37"W

Address

610 Beachview DrSt. SimonsSaint Simons Island 31522 United States

Contact

(912) 638-4666

Website

Social media

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Saint Simons Island

Day trips

St. Simons Island Light – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Jekyll Island Club, Jekyll Island Museum, Sidney Lanier Bridge, East Beach Station.

5.3 miS
Golf
Jekyll Island Club, Jekyll Island
137 min walk • The Jekyll Island Club was a private club on Jekyll Island, on Georgia's Atlantic coast. It was founded in 1886 when members of an incorporated hunting and recreational club purchased the island for $125,000 from John Eugene du Bignon.
5.4 miS
Museum, History museum, Natural history museum
Jekyll Island Museum, Jekyll Island
139 min walk • The MOSAIC is a history museum in the historic district of Jekyll Island of Georgia, in the United States. The historic Club Stables, located on Stable Road, is now the home of the Jekyll Island Museum. This historic building was renovated by Weber Group, Inc. and Main Street Design in 2018, and re-opened spring of 2019.
5.6 miW
Bridge
Sidney Lanier Bridge, Golden Isles of Georgia
142 min walk • The Sidney Lanier Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Brunswick River in Brunswick, Georgia, carrying four lanes of U.S. Route 17. The current bridge was built as a replacement to the original vertical-lift bridge, which was twice struck by ships.
1.4 miNE
Museum, Military museum, Beach
East Beach Station, Saint Simons Island
37 min walk • East Beach Station is a station of the U.S. Coast Guard in St. Simons, Georgia, United States, located at 4201 1st Street. It was built in 1936 as a part of the Works Progress Administration initiated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
5.3 miW
Tree
Lanier's Oak, Brunswick
135 min walk • Lanier's Oak is a historic Southern live oak tree in Brunswick, Georgia. It is named after poet Sidney Lanier.
3.8 miSW
History museum, Museum
Indian Mound Cottage, Jekyll Island
96 min walk • The Rockefeller Cottage, also known as Indian Mound Cottage, is a house on Jekyll Island, Georgia. It is next to the Jekyll Island Club. It stands three stories high, and has a total of 25 rooms. There are nine bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and seven servant rooms.
~420 ftW
31°8'3"N • 81°23'41"W
Neptune Park Fun Zone, Saint Simons Island
3 min walk • Park, Theme park, Amusement park
5.3 miS
Historical place, Church, Shingle style architecture
Faith Chapel, Jekyll Island
136 min walk • Faith Chapel is a historic chapel on Old Plantation Road in Jekyll Island, Georgia and was built in 1904. It was used as a non-denominational chapel until 1942. The state of Georgia purchased it along with Jekyll Island in 1947.
2.3 miN
31°9'59"N • 81°23'9"W
Mildred Huie Plantation Museum at Mediterranean House, Saint Simons Island
58 min walk • Museum, Specialty museum
0.7 miNW
31°8'34"N • 81°23'53"W
St. Simons Presbyterian Church, Saint Simons Island
17 min walk • Church
5.6 miS
Shingle style architecture
Walter Rogers Furness Cottage, Jekyll Island
142 min walk • Walter Rogers Furness Cottage – also known as the "Old Infirmary" or the "Jekyll Island Infirmary" – is a Shingle Style building on Jekyll Island, in Glynn County, Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to St. Simons Island Light?

Nearby attractions include Neptune Park Fun Zone, Saint Simons Island (3 min walk), St. Simons Presbyterian Church, Saint Simons Island (17 min walk).